November 20, 2024

Declaration Comes After City Saw Longest Rainless Streak in Recorded History

City’s Water Supply Needs Almost Eight Inches of Rain to Reach Normal Levels

Mayor Banned Grilling in Parks, FDNY Created First-Ever BrushFire Task Force in Response to Historic Increase in Brush Fires

Drought Warning is Second of Three Levels of Water Conservation Declaration Possible by City; Mayor Issued Drought Watch on November 2nd and Warning on November 18th

NEW YORK—New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Commissioner Robert Tucker, and New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue today announced additional measures that the city is taking to prevent brush and forest fires amid the city’s ongoing drought warning, declared on Monday, as well as an increased fire risk. Effective immediately, the city is suspending the issuance of permits for fireworks displays or open flames across the entire city. Additionally, NYC Parks is cancelling previously-issued permits for fireworks displays or open flames in city parks and FDNY will review previously-issued permits for those activities in or over city streets or waters on a case-by-case basis. The city will work with individuals and groups who had those permits if they wish to proceed with their previously-scheduled event using alternatives to fireworks displays or open flames.

Read the full Mayoral Press Release.